In specific situations, such as stress or illness in a lifetime, people could experience panic attacks. Generally, panic attacks occur only on rare occasions. However, panic disorder is a type of anxiety in which a person suffers from recurrent panic attacks. In this case, people experience recurring and unexpected panic attacks. As well as lingering fears of more attacks.
Panic Attack Symptoms
The panic attack symptoms are range broadly. But there are four most common and well-known symptoms.
- Heart rate has increased
- Getting dizzy and lightheaded
- Irrational and anxious thoughts
- Fear of losing control, going insane, or dying
Case Study of Panic Attack
D is a man in his 40’s who went to the ER with breathing problems. D has experienced a couple of instances that he felt a severe fear. Within a couple of minutes, the fear has reached a peak. He would also experience accelerated heart rate, shortness of breath, and sweating. It made him think that he might die.
As a result, it became hard for D to visit unfamiliar places or meet new people. He was afraid of having another panic attack and not getting proper help. He made excuses to stay at home whenever possible.
Help Suggestions for Panic Attacks
How to help people with a panic attack?
- Try to react calmly and ask if the person needs any help.
- Ask them if they want to stay or leave the place to go somewhere else. Having a choice is giving them trust about this instance is temporary and can overcome the situation.
- Help them to take a breath. Ask questions that can help them focus on other things (e.g., today’s date, what can be seen around, or foods they like).
In case of a panic attack, the most important thing is to think that it can get better. It can get better very soon or can take some time, but it will get better eventually.
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References
Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash
- Department of Health, State Government of Victoria. (2020). Panic attack. More information here.
- Society of Clinical Psychology. (2016). Case study: Dave (Panic Disorder). More information here.